MEDIA RELEASE
6 October 2005

Plans for a green refuge at Newmarket's crossroads

Auckland City Council is looking for feedback on plans to enhance Newmarket's Lumsden Green Reserve as a 'green oasis' at the heart of the shopping precinct.

A $1.2 million makeover is planned for the small park, which sits near one of the city's more high profile intersections at the corner of Broadway and Khyber Pass Road.

The council plans to hold two open days on 28 and 29 October in Lumsden Green to get public feedback on the plans for the reserve.

Auckland City open space planner, Shyrel Burt, says the aim is to transform the park into a refuge for shoppers, retailers and residents in Newmarket.

"Lumsden Green is a popular spot for people to relax, socialise and have lunch. We want to build on that and make sure the reserve is a haven from the lively hustle and bustle of the retail centre.

"There are some exciting plans for the park. We're keen to hear what people want for the area and what they think of the plans so we want people to come along to the open day," she says

Some of the major changes planned include:

* a glass and stainless steel canopy at the intersection of Broadway and Khyber Pass Road

* creation of an amphitheatre-like grassed area for relaxation and community events

* development of a performance space

* new and wider paths through the park

* a low rock wall around part of the reserve

* new planting of deciduous trees

* feature lighting so the reserve can be used at night.

Ms Burt says the Ted Smythe water fountain and the Marte Szirmay sculpture in the reserve will remain.

However, she says an old canon will be moved from the reserve to another location in Newmarket.

Ms Burt says all the materials use in the Lumsden Green upgrade will be consistent with those used in other parts of Newmarket, including 'Newmarket' stone and timber and stone benches, Chinese basalt, and stainless steel bollards.

The plans for Lumsden Green have been reviewed by Auckland City's newly formed Urban Design Panel.

People can comment on plans for the reserve at the Open Days between 12pm to 4pm on Friday 28 October and between 11am and 1.30pm on Saturday 29 October, or by visiting www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/projects.

ENDS

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